Beirut - Suleiman Asfhani
Lebanese singer Assi el-Hellani Beirut - Suleiman Asfhani Lebanese singer Assi el-Hellani does not fear challenges from other artists in the Arab world stating of competitors “he will achieve the fame destined for him in God’s plan, and the support of the people.” He told Arabstoday he thinks if a singer is well known by his song and the composition he will be able to grow in popularity. He explained the process as he composed a number of his songs which are famous across the Arab world. “Of course when the composition comes from inside the singer, it will have a positive effect on the song and the voice, as he combines the music with feelings and performance, but this doesn’t mean that co-operating with other composers does not help the singer.” He also stated he will debut a group of songs that have elements from great composers and poets stating “the feeling of the singer plays an important role is conveying an image clearly to the people.” Assi has performed national songs for the Lebanese army, he stated this about his support “I can express my belief in my country and other Arab countries, when I talk of the army, national unity, Beirut, people and the one nation in Lebanon I am supporting, even with this little act, the correction of the national path, artists must reflects everything good to people and nations. This is a heritage that my kids will carry on after me.” The Lebanese singer recently participated in “The Voice”, a talent program which will be broadcast on MBC TV. While he did not previously expect to take part, he said: “I am totally with any idea that helps support new talents which deserve to be introduced to people. MBC introduced many ideas that will help these new talents and will help in enriching well and purposeful art. Speaking about progress on his upcoming album he said “It will be released after putting the final touches on it”, he referred to his work requiring a long period to complete and that it will include compositions by himself in addition to a number of important composers, poets and music distributers. He described the upcoming album as a celebration of variety and wants to avoid restrictive artistic control. Recent reports have claimed Assi el-Hellani moved from the Al Hazmieh area to Monte Verde due to being threatened with violence although he denied this stating “I am not a politician, or militant to be threatened, I am an artist, and I am used to people’s love not their threats.” He confirmed that his family has moved to the new house but informed Arabstoday that he still owns his previous residence as well.